Do you ‘cue? Are you the guy or gal who is always hovering over the grill, tending to the meat and mixing sauces and rubs? Have you ever thought about taking it pro? Well, there is no time better than now to join The Kansas City Barbeque Society (KCBS), a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting and enjoying barbeque.
KCBS is the world’s largest organization of barbeque and grilling enthusiasts with over 15,000 members worldwide. The organization also sanctions over 400 barbeque contests coast-to-coast throughout America. From volunteering to actual event production, their members also offer assistance to civic and charitable organizations who organize events. Joining KCBS allows you access to recipes, links and discounts on BBQ supplies and equipment.
If you just like to eat barbeque, becoming a certified competition judge might be right up your alley. Being a Certified Barbeque Judge (CBJ) does mean more than just getting to taste award-winning barbeque. It means deciding which barbeque competitor wins those awards. It’s about representing and spreading the message of KCBS, which is to promote America’s cuisine—barbeque.
To become a CBJ, just attend one of the hundreds of classes conducted by KCBS every year throughout the country. In a half-day’s time, you’ll learn how to grade world-class chicken, pulled pork, ribs and brisket—and taste them during the process! Click here for a listing of official KCBS judging classes.
By the time you’re finished, you’ll be ready to sign-up to judge the next competition in your area! Visit KCBS’s events page here to find local competitions.
For those living in the Mid-Atlantic region, The Mid-Atlantic Barbeque Association lists plenty of classes, competitions and social gatherings for those that just backyard barbecue or professionals.
Think you have what it takes to enter the competitive barbeque scene? Check out the trailer for American Smoke, a documentary that looks inside the smoky world of competition barbeque and the people that pour their time, energy and souls into this truly American sport.
- Photo: Kansas City Barbeque Society
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